Ogdensburg library board seeks revenue sources

OGDENSBURG  Budget concerns at the public library have its board of trustees trying to figure out ways to generate revenue.

We need to bring money to us, Chairwoman Cathy C. Piche said at Thursdays board meeting. Can we generate some income to help keep the library going?

The citys proposed 2013 budget calls for $605,995 for the library. That is $59,013 less than the $666,018 that was requested. It is also $2,219 less than this years $608,214 budget.

Also, it has been proposed that $52,710, to match a state grant for window replacement and rehabilitation, be borrowed via a packaged bond with $280,000 to $300,000 for a pumper truck for the Fire Department and $122,000 for the Parks and Recreation Department to buy a Zamboni maintenance vehicle for the ice rink at the Richard G. Lockwood Civic Center.

As for generating revenues, officials are considering the possibility of setting up a local museum in the library.

It could work because there are more than enough local artifacts and exhibit-worthy materials to fill a museum, officials said.

The community has such a rich history, library Director Wayne L. Miller said Friday. The question is, if you build it, will they come?

The library also is facing a reduction in book purchase money, from a requested $35,000 to a recommended $30,911.

Meanwhile, the library stands to lose its $11,000 appropriation from St. Lawrence County.

Commenting rules:

Stick to the topic of the article/letter/editorial.

When responding to issues raised by other commenters, do not engage in personal attacks or name-calling.

Comments that include profanity/obscenities or are libelous in nature will be removed without warning.

Violators' commenting privileges may be revoked indefinitely. By commenting you agree to our full Terms of Use.